MANCHESTER'S own little fundraising miracle, Kirsty Howard, was given a standing ovation after glowing tributes by soccer star David Beckham and Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

The praise - and a few tears from the audience - came as the youngster attended the BBC Sports Personality Of The Year Award, broadcast live on television last night.

Kirsty, who was born with her heart back-to-front, was given six months to live four years ago, but defied the odds.

England Rugby Union star Jonny Wilkinson presented Kirsty with the Helen Rollason award, for outstanding achievement in the face of adversity, for her tireless work to raise é5m to fund the work of Francis House children's Hospice in Didsbury.

Kirsty's favourite star, David Beckham, was playing for Real Madrid last night and said in a recorded message that he was sorry he could not be there in person to see her accept her award.

Nerves

"This is a great night for you," he said. "I'm really sorry I can't be there to see you pick up this award, because I think it is thoroughly deserved.

"Do you remember a couple of nights when we met? The first time was before the Greece game, it was incredible. I was nervous beforehand, but I walked up to you and you smiled at me and that totally settled my nerves.

"The second time was at the Commonwealth Games. We were both a little nervous that night, but when I came around the bend, I remember seeing your face and for me that was an incredible moment. Congratulations also on the Manchester run. A few years ago, people wouldn't have thought you would take part in something like that. You are an inspiration to so many people, so many children and mothers and fathers.

"By the way, you've grown, keep eating those greens and I'll see you soon."

Earlier, United manager and patron of Francis House, Sir Alex said: "é5 million is not an easy target to reach, but Kirsty will get it, she will make sure of it.

"Some people have that special quality, they can drag themselves out of anything. She is one of them."

Later, the inspirational youngster was on screen again as part of the Kirsty's Millions documentary, which charted her quest to fund the work of Francis House. So far, Kirsty and appeal manager Susie Mathis have raised more than é3m.